Drought and Water Conservation
- Water Levels in New Hampshire
- Drought Monitoring
- Water Conservation In The Home
- Long Term Water Protection Through Land Conservation
- Wells, Groundwater, Water Testing and Water Supply
- Water Supply and Sanitation Emergencies
- Home Repair Loans & Grants
- Water Security
- Drinking Water FAQ's
- Regional Sites
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Water Levels in New Hampshire
Water levels in streams, lakes, and underground aquifers are currently well below normal in most parts of New Hampshire. Although precipitation rates during the month of March were normal, rain and snow arrived only after months of low water conditions. In March, these low water conditions prompted the New Hampshire's Drought Management Team to declare Drought Emergency for all but Coös County
These conditions are likely to affect all of New Hampshire's residents to varying degrees. Under emergency conditions, public water suppliers have the authority to restrict water use. These restrictions may affect households and businesses using public water supplies. Households on drilled wells may experience water shortages, especially if the drought continues. But, households using dug or shallow wells are the most likely to actually run out of water, at least temporarily, especially if water use is heavy for a time period.
Water is a precious, life-sustaining resource. The following links and contacts contain information that address water protection from conservation within the home to protecting water supplies over the long term. There are many different things you can do. Choose a few that make sense for you.
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Drought Monitoring
See how current precipitation rates measure up around the US: Top of page
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Water Conservation In The Home:
Water on our planet is a finite resource that cycles below, around and above us. We "borrow' it when we use it at home and work. Conservation is always smart, but especially during drought conditions. Find some conservation tips to try at home and at work in these fact sheets and slide show!
- UNH CE - Why Saving
Water Makes Sense
- UNHCE - Water Conservation Slide Show:
- html
- PowerPoint (large file - may take
time to download)
- NH
DES Water Conservation Fact Sheets
- UME CE - Conserving Water at Home
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Long Term Water Protection Through Land Conservation:
Because water is a finite, reusable resource and our lives depend on it, it's really important to keep it clean. One of the best ways to keep water clean is to protect the natural environment on land. Natural lands help filter, replenish, store, and cool water. Protecting natural environments requires knowing about them, planning for their protection and finding ways to keep them healthy and functioning. Learn more about protecting water quality over the long term through the following links: Natural Resources Outreach Coalition
The Natural Resources Outreach Coalition offers educational presentations and follow up assistance to towns in the Seacoast interested in learning more about protecting their natural resources, economic vitality and community character. Contact NH Coastal Program for more information - 603-271-2155 Top of page
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Wells, Groundwater, Water Testing and Water Supply:
Precipitation replenishes groundwater which supplies water to wells for many households around New Hampshire. Precipitation rates in most of New Hampshire over the last year are about 75% below normal. Learn more about your well, potential contaminants, treatments and sources:
- Is Your Well Water Safe To Drink?
- NH DES Water Supply Fact Sheets
- NH DES Private Well brochure
- EPA New England Drinking Water Program
- EPA Drinking Water Well Guide
- National Groundwater Association
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Water Supply and Sanitation Emergencies:
Sometimes emergencies like storms, droughts or unexpected events limit our access to water. Be prepared by learning how much water you should store for your family, how to store it and how you can make a toilet under waterless conditions: Top of page
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Home Repair Loans & Grants
Some families in New Hampshire qualify for home repair loans and grants. Find out about financial assistance for very low income residents with dry wells: Top of page
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Water Security
Because water is so important to us, concerns about maintaining a safe water supply are rising, especially since September 11, 2001. Learn more about water security: Top of page
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Drinking Water FAQ's: Top of page
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Regional Sites: Top of page
